Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC) opened up their 40th year with a legendary performer this past Thursday night. Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Carlos Santana brought his 8 piece band with him that included his uber-talented wife Cindy Blackman Santana behind the kit. This was Santana first appearance at CMAC in 8 years.
Taking the stage at 8pm, Santana went into a track that made everyone else stand up and take notice. That was “Soul Sacrifice.” This instrumental really showcased the band at the Woodstock Festival back in 1969. In fact, some video footage of this was put on the video screen backdrop when the song was being played. Usually tracks like “Black Magic woman and “Oye Como Va” are reserved more towards the middle or end of Santana’s sets. That wasn’t the case here as both were played early and brought the fans to their feet. They pretty much remined their for the rest of the set. Santana didn’t say too much throughout the show but did offer some healing words when he did decide to speak. He said that “he was appreciative that the fans came out to see them. That he hopes the band can flood the fans with enthusiasm. That the world would be a better place if everyone opened up and was more accepting of each other. They need to go let go of fear he said.” Rhythm guitar player Tommy Anthony took the lead vocals on “Put Your Lights On.” The band ended their set with Santana’s biggest hit in “Smooth.”
Seeing the band numerous times over the past decade (the first time since 2019), I noticed a difference in Santana’s stamina. He has slowed down some probably due to some health related concerns he has faced over the last few years. He sat on a road case a few time’s throughout the set. Irreghardless, that didn’t take away the passion he gives and his overall technical precision, which was pinpoint. In addition, Cindy Blackman Santana is one of the most respected drummers out there and is always a treat to see her perform live as well. I can honestly say that anytime taking in the Santana band is a real pleasure, and this time was no different.
Setlist:
SOUL SACRIFICE
JIN-GO-LO-BA-(Babatunde Olatunji cover)
EVIL WAYS (Willie Bobo cover)
BLACK MAGIC WOMAN/ GYPSY QUEEN
OYE COMO VA (Tito Puente cover)
EVERYBODY’S EVERYTHING/ BENNY SOLO
EUROPA (Earth’s Cry/Heaven’s Smile)
BATUKA
NO ONE TO DEPEND ON
SAJA/RIGHT ON
PUT YOUR LIGHTS ON
CORAZON ESPINADO
MARIA MARIA
FOO FOO
Encore:
TOUSSAINT L’OVERTURE/ CINDY SOLO
GONNA HAVE A FUNKY GOOD TIME (James Brown cover)/ROADHOUSE BLUES (The Doors cover)/LOVE, PEACE AND HAPPINESS (The Chambers Brothers cover)
SMOOTH
We would like to thank Jordynn Gould from Brooklyn Made Presents for the credentials to review the show.
